The Philadelphia Eagles have secured the future of their star running back, Saquon Barkley, with a historic contract extension.
Barkley has agreed to a two-year, $41.2 million deal, making him the highest-paid running back in NFL history.
Saquon Barkley sets another NFL record
The contract, which includes an additional $15 million in potential incentives and escalators, cements Barkley’s place as a cornerstone of the Eagles’ offense.
After signing a three-year, $37.75 million deal last offseason, Barkley proved his worth with a record-breaking campaign that helped propel Philadelphia to a Super Bowl title.
Barkley’s first season in Philadelphia was nothing short of legendary.
The 28-year-old shattered Terrell Davis’ single-season rushing record, posting 2,005 yards in the regular season and an additional 499 yards in the playoffs. setting a new all-time mark for combined rushing yards in a single season (2,504).
His dominance on the field earned him the NFL Offensive Player of the Year award, further solidifying his place among the league’s elite.
Eagles General Manager Howie Roseman recently praised Barkley’s impact, calling his 2024 performance “the best season any skill position player has had in NFL history.”
With his new deal, the Eagles are betting on Barkley to maintain that level of excellence as they push for another championship run.
Barkley took to social media to celebrate the contract extension, sending a simple but telling message to his agent, Ed Berry with two emojis.
He later posted another message thanking his famly and his team saying: “Overflow! Grateful for the Eagles Organization , grateful for my team, grateful for the amazing fans in Philly. Fly Eagles Fly”
The running back’s journey from the New York Giants to the Eagles has been transformative.
After years of struggling in an underwhelming Giants offense, Barkley reestablished himself as one of the league’s most explosive playmakers in Philadelphia.
His new contract surpasses the previous high mark for running backs, set by San Francisco 49ers star Christian McCaffrey at $16 million per year.
Barkley will celebrate this milestone in familiar territory, returning to his hometown in the Lehigh Valley for an honorary event at the PPL Center in Allentown.
The celebration will feature performances by the Whitehall High School marching band and cheerleaders, paying tribute to Barkley’s roots.
“Allentown is proud to celebrate someone who embodies dedication, resilience, kindness, and commitment to the community,” said Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk.
As Barkley remains in Philadelphia through 2028, Eagles fans can expect more fireworks from the record-setting running back as he continues to chase greatness.
Read the full article here